Many parents want to encourage their children to exercise, but they don't have the money to send them to expensive exercise or dance classes. Others don't have the time or energy to maintain a strict exercise schedule for their kids on top of work obligations. Good news: There are simple ways to encourage exercise without spending huge amounts of time or money.
In fact, there are many small activities that you and your child can do every day:
It's tempting, especially when in a hurry or when feeling tired, to take the elevator whether you're going up two flights or ten. If you're pressed for time and only need to climb 5 or so flights, it may actually be faster to take the stairs instead of waiting for an elevator to arrive. Even when the elevator takes more time, many people stand and wait because they dislike the feeling of being tired or worn out that comes with exercise like climbing stairs. But when you start to view that feeling as a good thing, as a sign that your body is adapting and growing stronger, you may grow to like it more than you'd think. Try encouraging your child to race you to the floor you need to reach--and you should actually try to win. Depending on their age, children may notice if you're challenging them to a race, then not participating. Be careful, but have fun as well!
Whether it's dusting, doing laundry, washing dishes, making dinner, or doing yardwork, daily household chores can get kids moving and working. Few children actually enjoy these activities, but playing some of their favorite music and making it fun can help enormously. Work that can be done outdoors is especially beneficial because it encourages an active lifestyle.
If chores aren't enough, set up a fun activity like sidewalk chalk drawing, bicycle riding, or rollerblading. Sidewalk chalk is relatively inexpensive, and it encourages creativity and outdoor play instead of television or video games. Biking or rollerblading can be a fun group activity for your child and other neighborhood kids; one bicycle or one pair of roller blades can last a long time and be well worth the money spent. If your child is reluctant to part with technology, begin slowly by gifting or lending a camera to take pictures around the neighborhood. Your child can explore and possibly learn a valuable skill (photography) along the way.
These are only a few of the many options available to busy parents who wish to see their children stay happy and healthy. Do some brainstorming during free time, or ask your child what he or she would be interested in trying. If you run into difficulties, try making a list of many different activities and letting your child choose which ones are of interest. Be flexible, patient, and always encouraging!
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